Colorado Springs allows ADUs in residential zones with reasonable regulations. The city has adopted increasingly permissive ADU policies to address housing demand, with straightforward permitting and moderate size limits.
Zoning & Size Requirements [1]
| Allowed Zones | Single-family residential zones |
| Max Size (Detached) | 50% of principal dwelling or 1,250 sq ft (whichever is less); 750 sq ft max if principal < 1,500 sq ft |
| Max Size (Attached) | 50% of principal dwelling or 1,250 sq ft (whichever is less) |
| Max Size (JADU) | 700 sq ft |
| Max Height | 16 ft (detached ADUs); 25 ft (converted garage ADUs) |
| Max Units | 1 ADU per lot |
Setback Requirements [1]
| Rear Setback | 12 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Front Setback | 20 feet |
| Parking Required | No parking required (removed April 2025) |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required (removed April 2025, per CO HB 24-1152) |
| Min Lot Size | 4,500 sq ft |
Permit Process & Fees
| Approval Process | Building permit + owner affidavit |
| Review Timeline | 45-65 days |
| Permit Fees | $1,800-$3,000 |
| Impact Fees | $600-$1,200 |
| Plan Check | 2-3 weeks |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Available for select types |
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Construction Costs [2][3]
| Average Build Cost | $130,000-$260,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $130-$260 |
| Garage Conversion | $65,000-$155,000 |
| Prefab ADU (Installed) | $95,000-$210,000 |
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Rental Income Potential [4][5]
| Avg Rent (1 Bedroom) | $1,250-$1,700/mo |
| Avg Rent (2 Bedroom) | $1,600-$2,200/mo |
| Short-Term Rental | Not typically permitted |
| Est. Annual ROI | 8-10% annual return |
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Recent Law Changes
What's Changed Recently
- Denver ADU ordinance expanded (2026): ADUs now allowed on all residential lots citywide
- Boulder reduced ADU setback requirements to 3 ft for rear structures
- Colorado Springs streamlined ADU permitting: 45-day review guaranteed (2026)
- State HB 24-1152 effects: More municipalities adopting ADU-friendly policies
Tips for Building an ADU in Colorado Springs
- Colorado Springs has lower property costs than Denver; excellent ROI potential
- Military-connected population creates stable rental demand
- Lower cost basis makes it attractive for buy-and-hold investors
- Owner-occupancy focus makes it well-suited for primary residence + ADU strategy
Sources & References
All data on this page is sourced from official government records and verified market data. View our full methodology.
- Accessory Dwelling Units — City of Colorado Springs Planning Department — Accessed 2026-02-24
- HomeAdvisor — ADU Construction Cost Data Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Angi — Local ADU Contractor Costs Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Zillow Rental Manager — Market Rent Data Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- HUD Fair Market Rents Government Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- ADU Ordinance Update — Colorado Springs Planning Department — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Colorado ADU Legislation (HB 24-1152) Government Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
Frequently Asked Questions
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